The battery has a high capacity and allows you to cover a distance up to 13.7 miles from one full charge (full charge time does not exceed 3 hours). Knee control bar simplifies balancing and segway management.
Unit is quite heavy, not easy to transport.
The Segway Ninebot S is equipped with 2 powerful motors and 10.5" wheels with air-filled tires, so you can move on it on any type of road surface, including sidewalks with small curbs and bumpy roads. P54 protection class allows you to ride in rainy weather.
10.5" (air-filled)
1600 W (2 x 800 W)
Up to 10 mph
From 88 to 220 lbs
UL 2272 tested and certified battery
4-hour charging
Up to 13.7 miles distance per charge
28 lbs
1 year (6 months for battery)
The SentryShield™ smart battery management system reliably protects the electric motors and other electronic components from Overvoltage / short circuiting, Overheating, Overcharging and Overcurrent - an important point in terms of durability.
On the case, even small scratches are very noticeable.
When creating this model, Swagtron paid increased attention to safety: slip-resistant footpads provide excellent grip with any shoe, and Safe Stop Technology will help to avoid falls due to loss of balance.
6.5" (non-inflatable)
500 Watts (2 x 250 W)
Up to 8 mph
From 44 to 220 lbs
UL 2272 tested and certified battery
~1-hour charging
Up to 11 miles distance per charge
22 lbs
1 year
The body and suspension elements are made of high-quality and durable materials, so the gyro scooter is able to withstand the weight of the rider right up to 260 lbs. Even with such a high load, two electric motors make it possible to overcome rises up to 15 degrees.
The process of fully charging the battery takes quite a while.
Although this SISIGAD gyro scooter costs an order of magnitude cheaper than most other similar models, it is not inferior to them in terms of functionality: the built-in Bluetooth module, bright LED-backlight and loudspeakers are the main advantages here.
6.5" (non-inflatable)
600 W (2 x 300 W)
Up to 9 mph
From 44 to 260 lbs
UL 2272 tested and certified battery
5-hour charging
Up to 9 miles distance per charge
22 lbs
3 months
The total weight of the gyro scooter is about 17.6 lbs, so there will be no problems with its transportation to a skating area (a practical polyester bag is also included in the kit). The device can be operated at temperatures from 32°F to 104°F.
The ultimate load has a limit of 165 lbs.
This model was created specifically for children and adolescents, and therefore it is the best solution for teaching skating and mastering basic tricks: the bright design will attract attention and cause interest, and a low maximum speed minimizes the likelihood of injuries.
6.5" (non-inflatable)
500 Watts (2 x 250 W)
Up to 7.5 mph
From 44 to 165 lbs
UL 2272 tested and certified battery
3-hour charging
Up to 7.5 miles distance per charge
17.6 lbs
1 year
The iOS and Android supported SWAGTRON app allows you to monitor the path you take, see the current speed, set the top speed, sensitivity, and control some other settings.
In comparison with other models on this list, the motor power of this one is mediocre.
There are 3 riding modes in this model, each for a different level of experience, from complete beginners to pros. The most experienced users will have the opportunity to show off to their fullest.
6.5"
300 Watts (2 x 150 W)
7.5 MPH
44 to 220 lbs
UL 2272 tested and certified battery
1.5-hour charging
Up to 8 miles ride
20 lbs
1 year
Biggest Name in Self-Balancing Vehicles
Segway pretty much invented the self-balancing vehicle market back in the early 2000s with the release of the original Segway scooter. Today, they bring their several decades of expertise with such devices to the Segway Ninebot S Smart Self-Balancing Electric Scooter.
This Segway scooter is not quite like most of the other hoverboards that you will see on the market. Instead of being made and marketed as little more than a toy, the Segway Ninebot S is a serious transport device that is made to help people travel from one point to another. That means that the level of engineering along with the quality of components used in the build of this device far exceeds what you will find with most other hoverboards.
First things first, let's take a look at the wheels of this scooter.
Instead of the plastic or rubber wheels found on most other hoverboards, this device features two large air-filled tires that are meant for traveling on any type of terrain, ranging from sidewalks to city streets to even off-road paths. These wheels are much larger and more durable than the typical hoverboard wheels that one would find on almost any other hoverboard.
Furthermore, the P54 protection class included on these 10.5" tires makes them perfect for any kind of weather, guaranteeing you a stable platform that won't slip even in rainy weather.
Powerful Engine
Another area in which the Segway Ninebot S outclasses most other hoverboards is with its engine. This device uses two powerful 800 W engines that control each wheel, giving you a total power of 1600 W, far above what you will find with most competing devices. This allows the hoverboard to take you at speeds of up to 10 mph, an ideal speed meant for safe travel.
The engine is powered by a UL 2272 tested and certified battery that is capable of allowing the scooter to travel more than 13 miles on a single charge, which is again a figure that is much higher than most other hoverboards.
Despite the high power of the battery, charging doesn't take too long, with a fully charging time of only 4 hours.
One aspect of this scooter that really makes it stand out from most other hoverboards is the included kneebar, which can be used both for helping to maintain your balance on the board as well as providing a safe and simple way of operating the device. The kneebar also provides a convenient way for lifting the scooter whenever you need to transport it, which is most helpful as the device is quite heavy, weighing 28 lbs.
If you are looking for a hoverboard that is meant more for being a serious method of transportation rather than just as a toy, then the Segway Ninebot S is exactly what you are looking for.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $539.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07LFD7FMF |
Included Safety Features
Hoverboards have gained a bit of a reputation for being rather unsafe. While some manufacturers have improved on the technology in them to provide a more even and user-friendly experience, there is still a bit of a safety issue with them, especially for beginner or inexperienced riders.
The Swagtron Swagboard Pro T1 UL 2272 Certified Hoverboard has tried to put these issues to rest by including a number of safety features in the hoverboard to help provide an easier and much safer experience for riders of all experience levels.
A good look at this hoverboard will quickly reveal a number of added features that add up to an overall safer experience. This hoverboard includes non-slip footpads that allow for the rider to maintain a firm footing on the hoverboard at all times, preventing their feet from accidentally slipping off, even if the surface of the hoverboard gets wet.
Furthermore, the hoverboard includes a learning mode that limits the top speed of the device while users become more accustomed to maintaining their balance on the device.
For times when the motherboard may suddenly run out of power, the included Safe Stop Technology will make the hoverboard come to a rolling stop that makes it easier to maintain your balance while stopping.
Smart Battery Management
The rider's safety isn't the only thing this hoverboard provides protection for. The SentryShield™ smart battery management system provides highly reliable protection for most of the electronic components in the hoverboard, including the hoverboard's battery.
This system prevents many types of electrical failures, including overheating, short-circuiting, overcharging, and overcurrent. This helps keep the electronics inside the hoverboard in top working condition and adds to the overall reliability of the device.
Regarding the hoverboard's performance, this model is more inline with most others in its price range. The hoverboard features dual 250 W motors that give this model a top speed of up to 8 mph, with the rechargeable battery providing enough juice for the motherboard to travel up to 11 miles on a single charge.
The battery includes indicator lights that let you check the amount of battery power remaining at any given time, and which will alert you when the battery is running low on power.
The unit even includes an LED flashlight that lets you light up your way when using the hoverboard after dark. With its special safety features coupled with its overall reliability, this hoverboard should be a top choice for beginners.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $0.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B01FT9KAY2 |
Strong and Highly Durable
Many of the hoverboards out on the market are geared only towards teens or younger, with pretty strict weight limits that are often due to the lower power of their internals. Furthermore, these devices, in general, aren't typically known for being the most reliable, as can be attested by many a hoverboard owner.
The SISIGAD 6.5" Two-Wheel Hoverboard, however, has tried to reverse this reputation by providing a strong, durable design that is not only able to accommodate people of all ages but also by providing a reliable hoverboard that will hold up well to the typical wear and tear of such devices and last for a long time.
One of the ways in which this device reverses the trends of most other hoverboards is by using high-quality materials in the construction of the suspension as well as the main body of the device. This allows the hoverboard to accommodate riders who weigh up to 260 pounds, allowing for even larger adults to ride it.
Furthermore, the dual 300 W motors provide enough power for the hoverboard to overcome inclines of up to 15 degrees, even with riders who are near the maximum allowed weight for the device. This gives the hoverboard a surprising amount of power for a model of its size and price range.
Affordable Hoverboard
Plenty of other features are to be found with this hoverboard. The 6.5" wheels of the device include a rubber exterior that provides smooth operation on a variety of different surfaces, as well as non-slip footpads that help the rider maintain stable footing, even when traveling at top speed. Speaking of the top speed, this device allows for riding at speeds up to 9 mph, with a total distance of 9 miles per charge. This provides for up to an hour of continuous operation at top speed before it needs to be recharged.
Do take note, though, that this device does take a long time to charge, so it is always best to charge it up whenever it is not in use.
Some other nifty features are included in the design of this hoverboard, including LED lights along the body and wheels that will light up with beautiful light patterns, and even a built-in Bluetooth speaker that lets you listen to your favorite tunes while riding.
With the high power and strong, durable materials used in this hoverboard's construction, one would think that this model is quite expensive, but that is actually far from the case. In fact, this is one of the most affordable hoverboards on the market, providing an excellent value to anyone looking for a high quality device for a low price.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $169.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B07MM1ZPRZ |
Ideal for Children
Hoverboards can often vary greatly in their capabilities, but it seems that most models are designed primarily for teenagers and older, which often leaves younger children out when it comes time to find a good hoverboard. That's why the TOMOLOO 6.5" Wheel Hoverboard with LED Lights is such an appealing model to most parents looking to find a hoverboard for their children.
This hoverboard was designed primarily for use by younger children, and as such, it includes a number of design characteristics and features that make it well suited for those of a younger age.
First off, the total weight of any hoverboard is going to be important for younger children, as heavier devices are going to be much more difficult for them to transport. With this model, though, you get a lightweight design that makes it easy for anyone to pick up and carry, as the hoverboard has a total weight of only 17.6 lbs, which is much lighter than all of the other models listed in this review.
Also worthy of note is the relatively low top speed of the hoverboard, maxing out at 7.5 mph, which helps children stay balanced on the board much easier than with faster models while also reducing the risk of injury when falling. These two features alone help make this one of the safest models out there.
Sturdy and Well-Balanced
Speaking more of the design of this device, this hoverboard has a special shape that gives it a sturdy foundation while allowing any rider to easily stay balanced on the board. Children should find it easy to keep their footing well on the large footpads of this device, spaced out evenly to keep them well-balanced even when riding at top speed. The 6'5" rubber wheels will also allow for safe travel on a variety of different surfaces. The built-in battery lets riders travel up to 7.5 miles on a single charge, and when the battery is depleted, the unit only takes 3 hours to charge, so this hoverboard won't need too much downtime after being used.
One of the biggest features that will appeal to children are the 5 different LED lights that are on the body of the hoverboard. These lights will flash and roll in various colors, and combined with the 4 lights located on the wheels, will provide a high level of visibility for anyone who is riding this hoverboard in low light conditions. Also built-in to the hoverboard is a Bluetooth speaker that lets the rider pair their music with the board, with the lights even flashing in sync with the music.
With all of the great features provided by this hoverboard, including those that add to the overall safety of the device, any parents looking for a suitable model for their children will find one with the TOMOLOO 6.5" Wheel Hoverboard.
| Last updated price | $179.99 |
| Stock | In stock |
| ASIN | B078H1YQPG |
The More Affordable Swagtron
The Swagtron T580 is $100 cheaper than its sister model, the T1. However, it will be wrong to say that it is a lesser choice of the two; they just have slightly different features and thus will be appreciated by different users.
Same as the T1 (actually, same as every hoverboard model sold today, probably), the T50 is made to conform to the UL certification, so it is a quality product. It is manufactured from durable plastic to be able to hold up to 220 lbs of an adult user. The lower price is mostly due to the less powerful motors—while many competitors, including the T1, have two 250W motors, the T580's motors are 150W each. The motor power affects speed only a little bit, though, and this self-balancing hoverboard scooter is able to reach 7.5 MPH which is quite fast. It is only a little slower than the T1, which can speed up to 8 MPH. The real difference is in the distance per charge the models can cover; here, the T1 wins hands down as the T580 goes as far as 8 miles per ride against T1's 11 miles. This is an important feature if you are looking for the best hoverboard for commuting. However, if you are to use this electric rover to ride around your neighborhood and show off, the T580 has quite a lot to offer at a less daunting price.
Total Swag
Yes, it is a little bit slower and it can go lesser distances but as far as recreational use and entertainment go, the Swagtron T580 hoverboard is a total swag (pun intended). Here's why.
This self-balancing scooter is Bluetooth-enabled. Meaning, there is an app for it and there are speakers there. Already, it's pretty cool, huh? You can play music as you ride, attracting attention and showing off. Moreover, the speakers inside this hover are really good, even the bass can be played decently or even well depending on your personal quality bar. The music can be controlled from your smartphone after you've linked the app to the board. However, playing music is not the only thing the app can do.
The T580 hoverboard model has two modes, a Learning mode and a Standard mode. They can be switched on the board itself but it is easier and safer to do so via the app. The Learning mode has limitation set on speed so that your first experience is more controlled and comfortable. The Standard mode lifts those to allow you to go faster.
There are multi-level LED movement indicators to add some flash to your night rides, too. All in all, if you are looking for a hoverboard from a reputable manufacturer and with a touch of entertainment-aimed features, this one is as good as you will find. It's fun, it's light, and it will definitely catch the eyes of everyone around you.
Additional Info
| Last updated price | $199.00 |
| Stock | May be out of stock |
| ASIN | B075J14J42 |
What customers say about this product
Key Specs(4)
Perfomance(4.3)
Features(3.8)
What Is a Hoverboard?
We call them "hoverboards" although they are not the exact replicas of those encountered by Marty McFly in his trip to 2015 from 1985. Sadly, the real future still has to offer us a board capable of traveling long distances without wheels at all. All we have are these so-called hoverboards that are, in fact, self-balancing scooters or self-balancing two-wheeled boards. So what are they?
Visually, these hoverboards are simple compact boards with two big wheels at the sides. Inside, they have hidden motors like electric bikes that are spurred into movement by sensors that "feel" you step on the board. The direction is set by you moving your body. It may seem similar to a skateboard but it is not, really. Not that similar. For starters, it needs less physical efforts to move, due to a motor, and is more versatile when it comes to challenging terrains.
When used the right way, a hoverboard is a pretty safe and smart device, even at high speeds. It responds to the slightest shift of your body and follows the direction you set. It is also quite compact and durable when it comes to temperature fluctuations. Finally, it is a trendy toy today, everyone wants one. Really, let's face it, hoverboards made it this far in large part thanks to the celebrity support and promotion. Kids and adults alike follow the famous example. Try imitating Stephen Curry's crazy halfcourt shot from a hoverboard into your backyard basketball hoop.
Note: Before buying a hoverboard, check your local legislation regarding this transport; the use of hoverboards is limited in some states.
What Features to Compare
Targeted Users
Same as any other personal means of transportation, hoverboards have their own restrictions in use. Some models have age limitations and others can only support users within a certain weight range. Bottom limits are created to keep small children away as hoverboards can reach quite some speeds and therefore will be difficult to control for a kid. Upper boundaries generally only deal with weight and mean that the materials your board is made of have durability limits. The latter are fairly high, though, so no worries if you are a bit on a plus size. The said limitations are usually outlined by each manufacturer for each model. Generally, bigger wheels allow for more load but there are specific cases, too.
Power
Hoverboards are powered by motors installed in the wheels. However, motor power here does not exactly equal speed; the max speed is pre-programmed and limited at the development stage: since these toys are recognized as personal means of transportation, they are to be used on sidewalks and/or bike roads, not streets where cars drive, so with pedestrians and bike riders as well as "open" vehicle the hoverboard is riding too fast is extremely dangerous, hence the limitations. However, a high-power motor will be an advantage for users whose weight is closer to the upper limit since more power often means higher weight limits, if not speeds.
Also, low power might become an issue if you plan to climb hills on your hoverboard. Do keep in mind, though, that steep hills, in general, are often off-limits for this particular transportation method, most self-balancing scooters are able to climb 5° uphill at best, only some can handle riding at about 30° but no more.
Battery
Being an electric device, a hoverboard needs the energy to operate, of course. And being a portable item, it has a battery. The energy issue is fairly simple—the more capacity there is in your board's battery the longer its operational time is at a specific speed. But high-capacity batteries are also those that take more time to charge. You will need to remember this when you choose a hoverboard: if you plan to ride around your block for pure entertainment, you will always be able to quickly bring the board home to get it charged, whereas for commuting purposes it might be more beneficial to buy a board with a larger battery.
Design
Same as skateboards, snowboards, surfboards, and other similar items, hoverboards are trendy toys in addition to (or even instead of) being the means of transportation. And what toy is not created to be eye-catchy? Even books get to have beautiful covers to attract readers so it’s not a surprise in the least that hoverboards get a plethora of design solutions as well. From classic black to all colors of the rainbow and beyond, to complete pictures and comic scenes, you can check out and will probably find a board with just about anything on it. Or you can sometimes buy a white one and decorate it with skins and decals. Besides the body colors, there are lights of various colors, lighted wheels and fenders, the manufacturers run wild with these designs as they race for the customers love. Choose whatever you love.
Did you know?
How to Care for Your Hoverboard
While today, with some years of hoverboarding and a number of issues behind us, the self-balancing scooters have become much better built, sturdier, and safer, they are still electric devices with a battery and motors and a plethora of other quite fragile parts inside. And therefore, some measures of care must be implemented when it comes to you using and maintaining your hover. Here are some of them.
- You might have heard of the combusting issue. Well, it is mostly dealt with, the UL 2271 Certification has been a great help ensuring the safety of riders. However, one can never be too cautious when it comes to one's (or worse, one's kid's) life so there are things you can do to ensure nothing goes awry. What causes an average battery to combust? Well, setting aside the idea of a gruesome revenge from your ex who's put some explosives inside your purchase, in most cases, it's heat. While most of us stay indoors when it's over 95°F outside, we can't really control the temperature of the battery when it's being charged. This is when the danger is at its highest with your hoverboard scooter. Top-shelf models have protection against overheating but better safe than sorry so we recommend you don't leave your board unattended when it is connected to the grid. That means no overnight charging or when you're at school or at work. Luckily, most boards take 1 to 2 hours to charge so you can do that while you get ready in the morning and/or when you're back home before you go to bed.
- Also, no riding in an extremely hot weather. It's bad not only for your hoverboard but for your health as well.
- Excessively cold temperatures are also bad for the board. Same as our smartphones and other gadgets, hovers lose charge faster when it's too cold outside and can shut off. Exposure to any side of extreme temperatures can be a death of the battery or motor. To be on the safe side, check the box when your purchase comes, manufacturers often set specific ranges within which riding is allowed.
- Also, it can be generally unwise to leave the board outside at the mercy of the elements when you are not riding it. These gadgets don't take all that much space, you can place them in your room's corner or in a cupboard.
- Another big enemy of electric gadgets, hoverboards included, is water. Water can damage the circuits inside, causing malfunctioning, difficulties with control, unexpected crashes, etc. To avoid that, never ride in heavy rain, try to avoid puddles after that rain, and, for the love of all that is holy, don't wash off the dirt with a hose. Even if the manufacturer has added some protection to the unit, chances are it is no higher than IPX4, which is simply some splashing. So, when cleaning the board, better use a slightly wet cloth, especially near the seams.
- Keep an eye on the board after you bump into some curb or it rides into a wall after you stepping off it awkwardly. Hits at a speed are stronger than they seem so they can also disturb the insides as well as generate additional heat. It is rarely too dangerous but some attention won't hurt.
These are just some of the most important basic measures. Some more can be found on YouTube where long-standing riders post videos about popular rover scooters, teach tricks, and so on. We hope our guide helps you. Stay safe.
FAQ:
Q: Do hoverboards really explode?
A: They used to when first launched, yes. This is the reality and we need to face it. But the problem was acknowledged and the solution found, the batteries were upgraded to be safer and a certificate was created to evaluate them. Please only buy boards with UL 2272 Certificate. This is a certificate that is only given to the electric devices that meet very strict requirements regarding safety. All the hoverboards in our list have this certificate.
Q: How fast can I go on a hoverboard?
A: Generally, self-balancing scooters offer speed from 6 to 10 miles per hour although there are models that can go at 13 mph. But when you consider this parameter, note that the speed you see on the board or at the website selling it is the top speed under perfect conditions. That is, smooth surface at 0°. If you go up a small hill or over bumps, the speed drops.
Q: What is the weight limit?
A: Most manufacturers make their hoverboards able to hold up to 220 lbs of weight, and some also establish lower limits at which the board won’t recognize a too light rider. The latter is made to keep small kids away.
Q: Are these waterproof?
A: Depends on how you define “waterproof”. If you want to go swimming with a hoverboard, please don’t. Even a puddle will most probably be a death of your board so no riding in or after a heavy rain. But if you look carefully, you’ll see IP54 certified ones; this means the board is splash-proof and will survive a little drizzle.
Q: Why do I need Bluetooth one?
A: You don’t if you are not into fancy features. Bluetooth connectivity is mostly used to either control the board remotely (lock it, set alarms, play with it by making it “dance” around empty) or play music through board’s speakers. If you want a board to simply ride it, you may opt for a bit cheaper one without extras.
Q: Can I ride my board anywhere I want?
A: That is up to your local laws. Some states allow hoverboards on the same venues as bikes or skateboards whereas other (like NYC, for example) consider them too dangerous to be on the streets. Also, sometimes certain places (malls and airports to name a couple) restrict boards regardless of legislation so look into it, too.
Sources:
1. Lewis Painter Which hoverboard should I buy in 2016, PC Advisor. January 6, 2016.
2. Piper Cremin How do I select a safe hoverboard? Quora.
3. Lance Ulanoff The hoverboard gift guide: How to choose which one to buy, Mashable. November 23, 2015.
4. Patrick Holland, Sarah Mitroff Are hoverboards safe yet? CNET. December 15, 2016.
5. Stacey McGregor How to choose a hoverboard, Best Buy. October 9, 2016.
6. Self-balancing scooter, Wikipedia. Last modified on March 24, 2017.
7. Molly McHugh Buying a Hoverboard? Here's Everything You Need to Know, WIRED. November 27, 2015.
8. Jon Chase Hoverboard Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know, Tom's Guide. February 19, 2016.
9. Jon Mundy Hoverboard buying guide: Everything you need to know, TrustedReviews. December 8, 2015.